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Ontario Partnering with City of Toronto to Support BMO Field Expansion

Province Investing in Sport Tourism and Boosting Local Economy

Ontario is providing $10 million for the expansion of BMO field, as part of an ongoing partnership between the province and the City of Toronto to revitalize Ontario Place and Exhibition Place and support economic growth.

The expansion, which has transformed the stadium into a state-of-the-art outdoor sport field for soccer, football and rugby, will enhance the province's reputation as a premier destination for sporting events and increase tourism. In the construction phase alone, the expansion of BMO Field is expected to have generated more than $100 million for Ontario's economy.

As a result of the upgrade, BMO Field is set to host the 2016 Grey Cup and 2017 NHL Centennial Classic, which are expected to generate millions of dollars in economic impact. The 30,000-seat field will continue to attract world-class events that drive tourism to the region.

Investing in sport tourism is part of the government's economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history and investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.

Quick Facts

BMO Field, which is owned by the City of Toronto and operated by Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment Ltd. (MLSE), first opened in April 2007.

Ontario is matching an investment of $10 million from the City of Toronto.

2016 Grey Cup organizers expect that the 104th Grey Cup Championship Game and Festival will generate $70 million for the Ontario economy.

Additional Resources

Quotes

“Partnering with the City of Toronto for the expansion of BMO Field will support jobs, attract tourists and boost economic activity in the area. BMO Field was part of a highly successful Pan Am and Parapan Am Games and will continue to help build Ontario’s reputation as a premier sport hosting destination.”

Michael Coteau

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport

“BMO Field is an important gathering place for sports fans in Toronto, and the investment made by the Government of Ontario, matching the City of Toronto’s $10 million has helped turn BMO Field into a truly world class facility. I’m confident the stadium will be home to many memorable moments in our city's history.”